SBDC Forum: Energy review can save money

The Small Business Development Centers around New York state can help you grow your business and improve your bottom line.

Barbara Voerg

The Small Business Development Centers around New York state can help you grow your business and improve your bottom line.

One sure way to put money back in your pocket is to reduce your energy costs. Existing businesses (for-profit or not-for-profit) whose electric use is less than 100 kilowatts can qualify for a free energy assessment through NYSERDA, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority.

The SBDC can help you through the relatively painless process of setting up an audit. In the past, upfront payment was required and would only be reimbursed if one or more of the auditor's suggestions were implemented — and the paperwork was overwhelming.

The process is much simpler now, and as a client of your local SBDC, you will be asked to complete a basic one-page questionnaire. The information you provide is transferred into the Consolidated Funding Application system, and you are assigned an ID number. Usually, within a few weeks you will receive notice that an energy review is scheduled. Patience is required, as there are many requests and a limited number of auditors.

The auditor will inspect your property, observing lighting and heating systems and any other features that use energy. The auditor will report back to you with recommendations on how to minimize your energy use. Your audit will evaluate the cost of each recommended improvement and the estimated payback period.

There is no obligation on your part to accept any of the recommendations, but if you do, NYSERDA has various reimbursement and loan programs available to help you finance the changes. There may also be some tax incentives and/or deductions you can take advantage of as well. Your SBDC adviser will help you evaluate all these options.

This is a fantastic opportunity to save money, increase your bottom line and help the environment with no upfront costs and minimal investment of your time. You can get further details at NYSERDA.ny.gov or NYSSBDC.org.

-- Barbara Voerg is a certified business adviser for the Mid-Hudson Small Business Development Center. SBDC columnists appear on alternating Mondays. The SBDC offers no-cost one-to-one business counseling to new and existing businesses. For more information, call 339-0025, email sbdc@sunyulster.edu or go to mid-hudson.nyssbdc.org.

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